Government & Legislation

Presidential Message on Ash Wednesday

The White House issued a presidential message observing Ash Wednesday and the beginning of the Lenten season. The message highlights the significance of the day for Christians in the United States and globally, emphasizing themes of prayer, repentance, and faith.

President Signs H.J.Res. 142 and S. 3705 into Law

The President signed H.J.Res. 142 and S. 3705 into law on February 18, 2026. H.J.Res. 142 nullifies a D.C. tax law, while S. 3705 establishes a congressional time capsule for the U.S. Semiquincentennial.

Illinois Executive Order Accelerates New Nuclear Power Generation

Illinois Governor issued Executive Order 2026-01 to accelerate the development of new safe nuclear power generation in the state. This order aims to support clean energy goals by lifting restrictions on new nuclear plants and facilitating their development to meet projected capacity shortfalls.

GAO Report: Indian Affairs Workforce Capacity Strained by IRA Funding

A GAO report found that the Department of the Interior's Indian Affairs regional offices experienced strained workforce capacity due to increased demands from Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funding. The report highlights that while overtime and contractors were used, more sustainable solutions like streamlining administrative requirements were not pursued, impacting both the workforce and Tribes.

GAO Report on Puerto Rico Air Cargo Operations and Infrastructure

A GAO report details fluctuating air cargo volumes in Puerto Rico between 2015 and 2024, noting an increase to 621 million pounds in 2024. The report identifies infrastructure needs, such as enhanced warehouses and cold storage, and operational improvements, including staffing for cargo inspections, to support growth.

Presidential Proclamation: George Washington's Birthday, 2026

The President has issued a proclamation honoring George Washington's Birthday in 2026. The proclamation celebrates his contributions to American independence, liberty, and the rule of law, particularly in the context of the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary.

Presidential Message on Ramadan

The White House issued a Presidential message on February 17, 2026, celebrating Ramadan. The message highlights the spiritual significance of the holiday, emphasizes the importance of freedom of religion in the United States, and extends best wishes to those observing the occasion.

Presidential Message on Lunar New Year

The White House issued a Presidential Message extending Lunar New Year wishes to people of Asian heritage in the United States and globally. The message celebrates the holiday, acknowledges community contributions, and wishes recipients a year of health and happiness.

Executive Order Extending Disaster Emergency for Healthcare Staffing Shortages

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has extended a disaster emergency declaration for New York County due to ongoing healthcare staffing shortages caused by a nursing strike. The order continues previous emergency measures through February 24, 2026, aiming to ensure continuity of care and patient safety.

New York Disaster Emergency Declaration Extended

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has extended the state disaster emergency declared due to extreme temperatures and winter storms. The extension allows state and local governments to bypass standard procurement policies for essential supplies and services until March 19, 2026.